Northstar

M&C ASIA | 13 Be sure to relish local favourites Tuaran Mee (handmade egg noodles), Hinava (raw fish salad), Ambuyat (sago palm starch), before washing the meal down with a cup of local tea or Tenom coffee. A good place to taste a variety of street food is Kota Kinabalu's Night Food Market. To go tribal, schedule a trip to the village of Sukau, Sandakan – the gateway to eco-tourism hotspots. There, tuck into a grand Kadazan- Dusun tribal feast with the indigenous people dressed in traditional garbs, the old tribal way of life in full vivid display. It is impossible to miss the capital's majestic Mount Kinabalu rising up at 4,095m, where delegates can hike to Kinabalu Park and conquer one of the two picturesque trails — via ferrata up the summit. Lucky ones might just catch a glimpse of the exotic Rafflesia – the world's largest flower. For something more relaxing, there's always golfing, shorter nature trails, an orchid conservation centre, a trip to the butterfly farm, canopy walks, photography trails, and stargazing too. Stretch these activities over a few days, since there are mountain resorts and luxury glamping vendors to book stays at. Sitting on Borneo's east coast is Sabah's second largest city, Sandakan. It's well worth a trip especially for wildlife enthusiasts, and those who are keen to lend a hand for animal conservation efforts. Eco-tourism destinations include the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, Sukau Proboscis Lodge, Wildlife Sanctuary of Kinabatangan River and a day-trip to the Gomantong Caves. A two-hour car journey away from Kota Kinabalu is Kiulu River, the site of white-water rafting adventures, while Sipadan Island comes highly recommended for diving enthusiasts. Alternatively, the North Borneo Railway steam train offers social-media worthy scenery, at a more sedentary pace. For groups with more time, plot a team-bonding itinerary to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, a cluster of five tropical islands, each with its unique allures. To experience island life in limited time, pick Gaya and Sapi islands – connected via a 235m zip line, the longest island- to-island zip line in the world. Another nature adventure to choose is Kellybays, about 31km away from the capital. Suitable for up to 200 people, the mangrove forest setting allows crab catching, kayaking, batik painting and cooking demonstrations – followed by sumptuous buffet lunches. FEAST EXPLORE PLAY Meet the great apes – and save them too. In Sandakan, the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Sanctuary has been working hard to prevent the apes from extinction since 1964, its programmes enabling visitors to witness up close and personal how orphaned orangutans are rescued, nursed and released back into the wild. Get first-hand experience of ancient local traditions at the Monsopiad Heritage Village or at homestays in Sandakan such as the Miso Walai and Moido Walai, or The Misomporu in Kudat. THINK UNIQUE

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